Allometric analysis of organ weights: II. Beagle dogs.

A statistical analysis of organ growth was performed in 141 beagle dogs. Applying the allometric function, the correlation between organ and body weight could be described statistically. In the age range between 14 and 567 days, a significant linear, positive correlation was found between organ and body weight increase in all investigated organs, excepting the thymus. For each of the 12 organs allometric curves were established and the related tolerance limits and growth constants were calculated. In some organs sex-related differences were seen. The ratio of organ to body weight (relative organ weight) could not be described statistically as a function of age. Therefore, the use of allometric data is recommended instead of relative organ weights for the evaluation of organ weight changes.